Meanwhile, minivans are taller and larger than sedans and can carry more passengers than other types of vehicles. They are regarded as passenger vehicles and can be best suited for different outdoor activities.

Minivans may be larger than station wagon but the latter can also provide seating capacity of 6-8 individuals including the driver depending on the models of the vehicle. Station wagon is characterized by having a body style similar to a sedan but with an extended length for rear cargo area.

Station wagons have been first introduced than the sedan in the automotive industry. Before, this type of vehicle was made for commercial use. It was during the time when sedans emerged and produced that the station wagon became a consumer vehicle. Ford and Mercury are among the proponents in the manufacturing of full station wagon. Before, the Ford T station wagon was made from wood. Today, station wagons can be found in four door or two door design features made from steel or other harder materials for exterior. There are models with rear wheel drive while other station wagon makers produce four wheel drive vehicles.

The term station wagon or wagon is popularly used to sedan-like utility vehicle in America, Australia and New Zealand. In Britain, it is called estate car.

Station wagons had its good years in the automotive history. The type of vehicle was seen as a sedan delivery car particularly the two-door variety with extended rear cargo compartment during the 1950’s to 1970’s. Although the demand for station wagons in Canada and the United States have been declining since the 1980’s when the minivan was first introduced by Chrysler, the vehicle type remains popular in other parts of the world.

Station wagon’s competition with minivan and SUV is still factor in the decline of its popularity even in countries where they have been in great demand.  The former has a disadvantage when it comes to height compared to the latter two. Although the vehicle types have been widely regarded to be utilitarian, SUV’s and minivans can provide more advantages. But when it comes to affordability, the station wagon may be well-placed as the best choice.

There are different brands and car models that have been produced for the consumer market since 1950’s. Ford Falcon, Ford Escort, Saab 95, Subaru Outback, Buick Roadmaster and Chevrolet Caprice are some known station wagon models that have been introduced in the market. Some of the notable ones have been two-door station wagons.

The demand for station wagons in the United States and Canada has been eclipsed by the popularity of minivans and SUV’s. Although the mainstream station wagons have had a hard time penetrating the car consumer market, the luxury station wagons perform well in North America. Luxury wagons can be small, mid-sized or sport type. The sport luxury wagon leads the segment with the popular Volvo XC70 and V70 R.

Other brands and models of luxury wagons include BMW 3-Series, Audi A4 Avant, Jaguar X-type, Saab 9-3, Mercedes Benz C- and E-Class. The BMW 5 Series luxury wagon was the recipient of the Editor’s Most Wanted Vehicles for 2000.

Station wagons with modern features that can be found today may be likened to a minivan. However, the small variety still has the body style of a sedan but with a great variation.

The station wagons have experienced a declining popularity in the world car market. Nevertheless, the vehicle type may find a niche in the market particularly during these times of rising oil prices when many people have been actively opting for alternative utility vehicles that can offer fuel economy.